Dunlop hopes for Ouija bonus

Ed Dunlop already has one eye on Belmont Park and the 2005 Breeders' Cup despite there being only just over hours to go before his star filly Ouija Board goes to post a warm favourite to land this year's Filly & Mare Turf at Lone Star Park.

Ed Dunlop already has one eye on Belmont Park and the 2005 Breeders' Cup despite there being only just over hours to go before his star filly Ouija Board goes to post a warm favourite to land this year's Filly & Mare Turf at Lone Star Park.

The Newmarket trainer, who flew into Texas late yesterday, was on hand to supervise Ouija Board's preparations for tomorrow night's contest as she cantered on the turf course under work rider Chris Hinson.

But rather than expecting success in a race for which William Hill make her the 7-4 market leader, Dunlop is determined not to raise his expectations.

"Yes I feel some pressure, but the real pressure was when we took her to Ireland to go for the Oaks double," he said. "I know it's a cliche, but this just seems like a bonus."

Explaining that fears over the ground had led connections to decide against taking on the colts in the Turf race, Dunlop said: "I saw a photograph in the Racing Post of a big puddle and that helped to sway us.

"We'd heard a lot of reports about how good Kitten's Joy is, and anyway there is always that race if we come back next year.

"She came out of her race in the Arc better than any of her races this year - she'd put all the weight she lost in the race back on within eight days.

"I am realistic enough to know that it's going to be a tough shout.

"She's been round Epsom okay, she can travel, she's got speed, but we're at the end of the season and I feel like we are just lucky to be here. We'll give it a go and remember that there's always next year."

Fears that soft ground would prevail on the turf track have eased with daytime temperatures remain well over 80F.

"Another dry day and we should be okay," said Dunlop. "I have walked the track and it is a bit slower on the bends than in the straights, but a lot better than I might have been expecting.

"Chris Hinson, who rode the filly this morning, said it felt like good English ground. I won't be complaining if it stays that way."

With Dunlop already planning his return trip, bookmakers Coral offer 10-1 about Ouija Board being successful at next year's meeting.